The final PPV event 2023, UFC 296, showcased an intense welterweight showdown between Leon Edwards and Colby Covington. The event delivered a range of thrilling fights and produced some mixed results. Fans eagerly awaited the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup as the two fighters entered the Octagon with their sights set on victory.
With the welterweight title on the line, Leon Edwards successfully defended his championship belt against Colby Covington in a decision win. Edwards’ superior striking and takedown defense were displayed as he skillfully outperformed his opponent over five grueling rounds. This victory solidified Edwards’ position as the reigning champion in the welterweight division, marking another triumph in his impressive career.
Leon Edwards retains welterweight gold with a decision win over Colby Covington.
In the highly anticipated main event of UFC 296, Leon Edwards proved why he is the reigning welterweight champion by securing a decisive victory over Colby Covington. Using his precise striking and effective takedown defense, Edwards controlled the fight from start to finish, winning unanimously.
Throughout the five-round battle, Edwards consistently landed clean shots on Covington, showcasing his superior striking skills. His well-timed counters and powerful combinations kept Covington on the defensive, preventing him from mounting any significant offense.
Furthermore, Edwards displayed excellent takedown defense, successfully thwarting Covington’s attempts to bring the fight to the ground. This allowed Edwards to keep the fight standing, where he could utilize his striking prowess to maintain control.
This triumph represents Edwards’ third successful title defense, cementing his status as the welterweight champion to beat. With each successful defense, Edwards has proven himself as one of the top fighters in the division, exemplifying his skill, determination, and resilience.
Leon Edwards remains the epitome of a true welterweight champion, displaying exceptional skills and tenacity inside the Octagon.
Leon Edwards proudly displays his welterweight gold after a hard-fought victory over Colby Covington.
Alexandre Pantoja retains the flyweight title with a victory over Brandon Royval.
Alexandre Pantoja showcased his superior grappling skills and relentless pressure to successfully defend his belt against Brandon Royval. The fight displayed Pantoja’s dominance in the division, controlling the match from start to finish.
Pantoja’s relentless pressure and precise grappling techniques overwhelmed Royval, ultimately leading to a unanimous decision victory. Throughout the fight, Pantoja demonstrated his ability to control the pace and dictate the exchanges, showcasing why he is a force to be reckoned with in the flyweight division.
This victory solidifies Pantoja’s reign as the flyweight champion and cements his position as one of the top fighters in the division. With this impressive win, Pantoja has set the stage for future exciting matchups as he continues to defend his title against the best flyweights in the world.
Shavkat Rakhmonov stakes claim to title shot with a submission win over Stephen Thompson.
Shavkat Rakhmonov with an impressive second-round submission win over Stephen Thompson. Rakhmonov’s skillful display of well-rounded abilities and exceptional grappling techniques was evident as he secured a rear-naked choke submission, forcing Thompson to tap out.
This victory firmly places Rakhmonov in the conversation for a title shot in the welterweight division, highlighting his potential as a rising contender. His dominance in the fight and how he secured the submission win showcased his ability to compete at the highest level.
Rakhmonov’s Well-Rounded Skills
Rakhmonov’s performance against Thompson demonstrated his proficiency in various areas of mixed martial arts. His striking was precise and calculated, allowing him to close the distance and effectively set up his grappling attacks. Rakhmonov’s ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling made him a formidable opponent for Thompson.
Additionally, Rakhmonov’s impressive grappling ability was fully displayed during the fight. He showed excellent control on the ground, maintaining dominant positions and strategically setting up the submission finish. His technical expertise and composure under pressure were evident throughout the bout.
Paddy Pimblett shines with victory over Tony Ferguson and a new hairstyle.
Paddy Pimblett showcased his skills and secured an impressive victory over Tony Ferguson in their recent bout. Pimblett’s exceptional performance led to a unanimous decision win, displaying his dominance in striking and grappling. Throughout the fight, Pimblett demonstrated superior techniques and effectively controlled the match against Ferguson. This victory adds another triumph to Pimblett’s record and solidifies his position as a formidable force in the lightweight division.
Moreover, Pimblett surprised fans by debuting a new hairstyle for the fight. Opting for cornrows instead of his signature shaggy look, Pimblett showed his willingness to experiment and evolve both inside and outside the Octagon.
This victory and Pimblett’s innovative hairstyle present him with exciting opportunities for his future in the lightweight division. Fans eagerly anticipate his next fights and await the continuation of his impressive journey in the UFC.
Other Notable Fights and Results at UFC 296
UFC 296 showcased an incredible lineup of fights, each delivering thrilling moments and unforgettable results. Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable fights and their outcomes:
Josh Emmett’s Devastating First-Round Knockout
In a featherweight clash, Josh Emmett showcased his explosive power by delivering a crushing first-round knockout against Bryce Mitchell. The victory solidified Emmett’s status as a top contender in the division and left fans in awe of his striking abilities.
Alonzo Menifield’s Dominant Unanimous Decision Win
Light heavyweight Alonzo Menifield displayed impressive striking and defensive skills as he secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Dustin Jacoby. Menifield’s performance highlighted his versatility and showcased his ability to control the fight from start to finish.
Cody Garbrandt’s First-Round Knockout Victory
Former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt made a statement in his debut at flyweight with a devastating first-round knockout win over Brian Kelleher. Garbrandt’s speed and precision proved too much for Kelleher, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with in his new weight class.
UFC 296 Results: Edwards vs. Covington
Leon Edwards def. Colby Covington via unanimous decision
Alexandre Pantoja def. Brandon Royval via unanimous decision
Shavkat Rakhmonov def. Stephen Thompson via sub (RNC)
Josh Emmett def. Bryce Mitchell via first-round KO (1:57)
Preliminary Card
Alonzo Menifield def. Dustin Jacoby via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Irene Aldana def. Karol Rosa via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Cody Garbrandt def. Brian Kelleher via first-round KO (3:42)
Ariane Lipski def. Casey O’Neill via submission (armbar) (R2, 1:18)
Tagir Ulanbekov def. Cody Durden via submission (RNC) (R2, 4:25)
Andre Fili def. Lucas Almeida via first-round TKO (3:32)
Shamil Gaziev def. Martin Buday via second-round TKO (0:56)
